Trade Schools  & Apprenticeships 

Trade School or Vocational School

"Vocational schools, trade schools, and technical schools are places that can help you train for jobs that require a particular educational experience or where you can learn specific technical skills." Campus-based or online certificate, associate degree or other CTE training programs can usually be completed in a relatively short amount of time — under the four (or more) years it can take for a bachelor’s degree.  

What is an Apprenticeship Program?

Apprenticeship programs combine on the job training and classroom instruction and you can get PAID - "earn while you learn." Certificate and degree programs are also available at local community colleges. The following website lists all apprenticeship programs in California: www.calapprenticeship.org 

WHAT ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS?

• Boilermakers

• Carpenters

• Electricians

• HVAC 

• Insulation workers, mechanical

• Ironworkers

• Masonry workers

• Plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters

• Sheet metal workers

• Welders

• Linemen

How to Apply for an Apprenticeship

Generally to apply for an apprenticeship, an applicant must:

- Be 18 years of age

- Have a high school diploma or the equivalent

- Possess the aptitude, interest and physical ability to succeed

- Be willing to work in the environment of the craft or trade

- Have good math skills

In addition, reading, writing, and speaking skills are also important in many of the trades. High school classes containing the components of computer graphics, mechanical drawing, blueprint reading, drafting, electricity, welding, chemistry, and higher math are valuable. If you are interested in an apprenticeship program, you should contact an employer in the trade, the appropriate union, or the Division of Apprenticeship Standards in the California Department of Industrial Relations